When it comes to public health and safety, we need the right tool, at the right time, in the right place at the right cost. Sometimes that is a fire engine, other times it is a squad car– but sometimes it’s just a helping hand and a connection to health or services.
Many of you likely know that since the 2021 election City Council has provided almost 20% more funding to the Edmonton Police Service. I’ve shared some of my thoughts about ensuring return on investment for this expenditure previously. (more money more police not necessarily)
What you may not know, is that Edmonton City Council has also provided record investment into 24/7 crisis diversion through REACH, bringing their funding up to $5.3 Million in 2024. REACH was operating with a budget of under $2 million in 2021.
“The 24/7 Crisis Diversion program helps people experiencing nonemergency crises get to a safe place, freeing up police and emergency medical services to respond to more critical events. 24/7 Crisis Diversion program contributes to the decriminalization of poverty, mental health and addiction by supporting people to connect with appropriate resources versus engagement with police, justice and corrections.” https://reachedmonton.ca/initiatives/24-7-crisis-diversion/
Between January 1st - June 14th, 2024, the REACH team had 30,888 dispatches, a 30% increase from the same period in 2023. It is critical that we continue to invest in crisis diversion programs as the importance of them only continues to grow.
If you see someone who may be in distress but not in an emergency state, call 211 and you can request assistance from a Crisis Diversion team.
There are currently 10 vehicles on the road within a 24-hour period 365 days per year. Boyle Street Community Services and Hope Mission also each operate five crisis diversion vehicles, each vehicle staffed by a team of two, from the respective organizations.
Mobile Teams receive calls from 211 operators via a dispatch system and can typically respond to high-priority calls within 30-45 minutes.
Emergency Services and Peace Officers can also make direct referrals to Crisis Diversion teams.
In addition to this work helping so many folks, it is an alternative solution to augment public safety. It is also more financially sustainable than offering only a police response.
I’m also very interested in the Downtown Business Association “Night Patrol” program that, for the same cost as one police patrol car with two officers, dispatches two patrol cars with a peer and a security guard to help proactively respond to low intensity issues. As always they can call EPS if things merit it.
As we continue to invest in a program like REACH, it is important to let people know this solution exists and to encourage everyone to use it when needed. We all grew up knowing what number to call 911 for ambulance, fire or police, and now we have a new support number to remember as well.
Thank you to all the hardworking members of the crisis diversion teams – heroes in our community.
Learn More:
The Science and Secrets of Ending Violent Crime with Dr. Irvin Waller
How can we improve community safety and health? Join us for a presentation and community Q&A with Dr. Irvin Waller in discussion with community partners in Edmonton including REACH Edmonton, the Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues, Public Interest Alberta, the Parkland Institute and others.
Video: